In 1962, Verda Freeman Welcome became the first Black woman elected to a State Senate. Later, she became the legislative backer for the United States’ first ethnic commission, the Maryland Commission on African American History and Culture (MCAAHC). In celebration of the MCAAHC’s 50th Anniversary we are launching a new exhibition, Verda’s Place: An Homage to a Valiant Woman.

This cafe-themed exhibition is a direct response to places where Verda Welcome was unwelcome. Through memorabilia, photographs, and archival documents, Verda’s Place encourages interaction and participation to move beyond the exhibition space and into the communities of those who visit. Come learn more about this valiant woman and her politics as we launch this new, interactive exhibition.

The Laurence Hurst Anniversary Show – Curated from his personal collection, Laurence Hurst puts his talent on full display while weaving in the history of the Maryland Commission on African American History and Culture. In celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Maryland Commission on African American History and Culture, we proudly present the Laurence Hurst Anniversary Show and the Songs of the Caged Bird exhibition.

Songs of the Caged Bird – This thought provoking exhibit features works from Maryland based African American artists including: Daniel Brooking, Lilian Burwell, Joseph Edwards, Diane English, T.H. Gomillion, Amber Robles-Gordon, David Allen Harris, Aziza Hunter, Esther Iverem, Ulysses Marshall, Ida Mitchell, Greta McGill, Rufus Norman, Betty Murchison, Tony Spencer, and Kamala Subramanian. 

In celebration of the “Year of Frederick Douglass,” The Douglass Reading Room, features books written by and about Frederick Douglass and other influential African American authors.  There will also be art works by noted artists: Elizabeth Catlett and Romare Bearden.  Guest curated by Greg Morton of Baltimore, this interactive exhibit brings to life the writings and living quarters of Frederick Douglass connecting historical themes with modern day discussions.

The exhibit opened June 5, 2018 and runs until February 28, 2019. This exhibition will host several Douglass Reading Room public programs throughout the year including book readings, art exhibits, and educational workshops.  

Featured Artists 

June 5 – August 11, 2018: John T. Biggers,  Romare Bearden, Elizabeth Catlett, Jamea Richmond Edwards,  Joan Gaither, Ph.D, Jacob Lawrence, Amy Sherald, Derrick Adams,  Emory Douglas, Arvay Adams, and Makeba Rainey.

August 18 – February 28, 2019: Romare Bearden, Alteronce Gumby, Tom Miller, Elizabeth Catlett, Arvay Adams, Mildred Thompson, Laurence Hurst, and Joan M.E. Gaither, E.d.D,.